Two Camps, Same Values

Friendship, adventure, growth and fun.

We live and breathe these values every day. At Camp Thunderbird campers are empowered to discover their true and best selves. Our fun, nurturing environment provides daily opportunities for campers to challenge themselves through adventure, fostering personal growth. Campers leave Thunderbird with a sense of belonging, a better understanding of who they are, close friendships, increased independence, and a collection of life skills that will carry them into adulthood. To our campers, past, present, (and future), Thunderbird is home.

Where friends become family

Rich in tradition, friendships are formed with campers and counselors from diverse backgrounds. Never met someone from Australia, the United Kingdom, or Mexico, you will this summer at Thunderbird!

A personal adventure

Whether choosing from 30 daily activities, participating in our camp based adventure opportunities or embarking on a customized wilderness experience, Thunderbird campers create their own adventure alongside their friends and community.

Growing up

Campers never outgrow Thunderbird as each summer brings new opportunities and challenges. And, if you are old enough to come to Thunderbird, you are old enough to participate in all of our activities.

Pure fun

There’s always time at Thunderbird to laugh, play and get dirty, or just relax with friends and cabinmates.

Where friends become family

Rich in tradition, friendships are formed with campers and counselors from diverse backgrounds. Never met someone from Australia, the United Kingdom, or Mexico, you will this summer at Thunderbird!

A personal adventure

Whether choosing from 30 daily activities, participating in our camp based adventure opportunities or embarking on a customized wilderness experience, Thunderbird campers create their own adventure alongside their friends and community.

Growing up

Campers never outgrow Thunderbird as each summer brings new opportunities and challenges. And, if you are old enough to come to Thunderbird, you are old enough to participate in all of our activities.

Pure fun

There’s always time at Thunderbird to laugh, play and get dirty, or just relax with friends and cabinmates.

Hear from our parents

“I just wanted to thank you and all your great staff for a wonderful summer. Drew had THE best time ever! He especially loved his counselors and all the friends he made. This truly was the experience I was hoping for him when I signed him up for T-bird. Thank you for helping provide a safe, thrilling and growing environment for him to thrive. From very happy parents!”

Lyz B. & Michael L. Chicago, IL Current Parents

“We are so pleased that our daughters chose Thunderbird. To have the chance to step outside of their comfort zone and explore new activities they would never otherwise try. The life lessons they learn at camp will truly help shape them for what's ahead in the real world...adapting on the fly, working as a community, and seeing the good in each individual.”

Jeff and Amy G. Deerfield, IL Alumna and Current Parents

“Max LOVED his time this summer. His confidence is boosted, and we are seeing a very self-assured guy. He is speaking so highly of his counselor and it is clear they played an important role in this summer’s growth.”

Leigh and Jordan P. St. Louis, MO Current Parents

“As a second generation Thunderbird family, it has been so gratifying to watch our daughter and son share my love for camp but also experience it entirely on their own terms. They feel so at home at camp. We are extremely grateful!”

Randy and Amy F. St. Louis, MO Alumna and Current Parents

“When Tessa was 10 years old, we sent her to Thunderbird. Her letters home that summer talked about loving blacksmithing, getting to the top of the climbing wall, going on a 3-night climbing trip and having so much fun with all of her new friends. She came home with so much confidence, and having gained real skills at her activities. We can’t say enough about how much we love and appreciate Thunderbird! ”

Jill and Paul M. Austin, TX Current Parents

“My boys came home so much more confident, independent outgoing and more. Thanks to you and Tbird.”